PoreIQExfoliants & acne · Acne actives
Azelaic Acid
A gentle acid that helps with redness, breakouts and dark marks, and is often tolerated by sensitive skin.
- Best for
- Sensitive and redness-prone skin · Acne-prone skin · Uneven tone
- When to use
- AM/PM
- Pairings
- 2 combinations checked
What it is
Azelaic acid is naturally found in grains. Cosmetic products often contain around 10%; stronger versions are available by prescription. It is valued because it addresses breakouts, redness and uneven tone at the same time.
Benefits
- Calms the look of redness
- Helps with breakouts and clogged pores
- Fades the look of post-blemish marks
Watch-outs
- May tingle or itch for the first couple of weeks
- Results usually take 1–2 months
How to use it
Apply once or twice daily after cleansing. It layers well under moisturizer and sunscreen.
Can you mix azelaic acid with…
- Azelaic Acid + RetinolUse with cautionAzelaic acid is gentler than most acids and is sometimes combined with retinoids, but both can tingle at first.
- Azelaic Acid + NiacinamideWorks well togetherA gentle combination for redness, breakouts and uneven tone.
Frequently asked questions
What does azelaic acid do for skin?
A gentle acid that helps with redness, breakouts and dark marks, and is often tolerated by sensitive skin.
Is azelaic acid good for redness?
It is one of the most common choices for redness-prone skin because it calms the look of redness while also helping with breakouts.
Related guides
- How to Find Your Skin Type at Home (The 30-Minute Bare-Face Test)
- How AI Skin Analysis Works (and How Accurate Skin Scanner Apps Are)
Similar ingredients
General cosmetic information, reviewed against public guidance such as the American Academy of Dermatology. Patch test new products. For medical concerns, see a dermatologist. Last updated 2026-10-22.